Pope Benedict XVI has used his Easter Sunday message to urge the Syrian regime to heed international calls to end bloodshed and commit to dialogue.

The 84-year-old said: "May the risen Christ grant hope to the Middle East and enable all the ethnic, cultural and religious groups in that region to work together to advance the common good and respect for human rights.

"Particularly in Syria, may there be an end to bloodshed and an immediate commitment to the path of respect, dialogue and reconciliation, as called for by the international community."

As he spoke, 74 civilians were killed as Syrian troops clashed with opposition fighters, activists said.

The pope also called for humanitarian assistance on behalf of Syrians fleeing the conflict into neighbouring Turkey.

"May the many refugees from that country who are in need of humanitarian assistance find the acceptance and solidarity capable of relieving their dreadful sufferings," he said.

Above: video shot in Homs and uploaded on 5 April appears to show missiles slamming into the city streets.